How to Shoot Arrows: Your Basic Guide to Archery with 3 Tips

Ever wanted to learn the basics of archery? It’s the fastest growing sport in schools across the country, and it’s quickly gone from obscure to mainstream in a matter of a few short years.

Sound intimidating? It’s not! Rob Mannhard from the Trailhead Outdoors Archery Center says it’s a lot easier than you think and shares the complete guide to get you started.

1. Understanding the Equipment

Make sure to seek out an archery pro shop or an experienced archer to get you started correctly. Bad form or habits are harder to correct than to learn properly the first time. Ask a lot of questions, and learn whether traditional bows, compound bows or recurved ones will work better for you. Recurved ones start at under $200, while compound bows begin at about $300.

Some shops provide rental equipment and range time to get your feet wet in the sport at a minimal cost. It’s the perfect way to try it before you buy it!

2. Safety First!

Make sure to always shoot in a safe environment and be aware of your surroundings. Being safe also involves making sure you are using the proper equipment so you won’t get hurt. This is crucial for comfort, accuracy and of course, your enjoyment. If your equipment isn’t adjusted correctly, it will not perform in a manner that will let you be the best you can be.

3. Practice Makes Perfect

Be patient and practice, practice, practice! Archery has both a physical and mental aspect to it. Frequent practice allows you to build muscle strength and memory of the motion required in archery. Practice also allows you to concentrate both on form and consistency. Not only that, but total focus on shooting can allow you to relax about other aspects of your daily life. That means bye-bye, stress!

If the ancient sport of archery is something that’s sparked your interest, no need to be intimidated. Being cautious and using the proper tools will get you on the right track to becoming a pro!